Episode 17: Rivers as Composer with Fr. Jan Michael Joncas

Eric and Emily interview celebrated Catholic liturgical music composer and liturgy scholar Fr. Jan Michael Joncas, who has penned such classics as “On Eagles’ Wings” and “I Have Loved You” about Rivers as a composer. Fr. Mike shares two of his own compositions for liturgy in which one can hear Fr. Rivers’ influence clearly (full songs included). The conversation situates Rivers as an American Catholic composer and highlights Fr. Rivers’ historical significance, our changing times, and other composers who inspire Fr. Mike today (some of whom might surprise you). Fr. Mike offers a helpful, hopeful list of essential elements for composing mystagogical liturgical music in our modern age, Eric gives music recommendations and Emily fan-girls over Fr. Mike’s music (but only a little). It’s an episode that will interest musicians, composers, and anyone who loves good music. For Episode 17 show notes, click here.